Cyprus Times

European Parliament: 20-Year-Old Shocks with Story of Mother Murdered with 17 Stab Wounds

Published January 15, 2026, 14:13
European Parliament: 20-Year-Old Shocks with Story of Mother Murdered with 17 Stab Wounds

20-year-old Danai Jessica shocked the European Parliament with her speech about the murder of her mother, Enkeleida, by her father with 17 stab wounds in Menidi in May 2024. Danai Jessica spoke about the lack of protection her mother received, despite repeated reports of threats to the police and the judiciary. Enkeleida had reported her ex-husband three times, but authorities often reassured her, telling her she did not need to file a lawsuit. Danai Jessica emphasized that her mother was never informed about the scheduled hearing for the immediate trial, and therefore did not know if the perpetrator was free. The 20-year-old denounced shortcomings in the victim protection system, as there was no risk assessment, victim information, and immediate protection. She called for institutional and financial support for the children of victims of gender-based violence, as well as mandatory information for victims at every stage of the criminal proceedings, unified European risk assessment protocols, and the immediate implementation of protective measures. Danai Jessica's speech was given at an event entitled “Femicides: 8+1 Stories at the European Parliament”, organized by MEP Kostas Arvanitis of SYRIZA and the non-profit organization “Become Human”.